Advanced System Level Durability Analysis, Prediction and Optimization

Impact Technologies, with the support from our commercialization partner General Dynamics Land Systems, propose the development and demonstration of a suite of integrated computer modeling/simulation tools that can perform detailed durability and fatigue life predictions on ground vehicle subsystems comprised of multiple, highly interactive components. The proposed program would address the need for more accurate and integrated component lifing technologies that can be used from the design stages all the way through to field support initiatives. The key components of this integration are the individual component life analysis modules, probabilistic analysis with uncertainly management methods, subsystem interaction models and the necessary open systems software simulation framework that can analyze a defined hierarchy of components in an efficient manner. Specifically, Impact will leverage its experience with ground vehicle suspension/propulsion systems, the VEHDYN component of the NRMM, structural ANSYS/ADAMS/DADS modeling and relationship with GDLS, to create integrated probabilistic fatigue life modules capable of analyzing and predicting subsystem life for key manned ground vehicle suspension components as a case study. The modules will be developed and demonstrated within the Matlab/Simulnk™ environment with direct interfaces to VEHDYN, ADAMS and ANSYS models and available suspension data. Furthermore, the proposed modeling and simulation environment will be implemented within a node-based, resource sharing computing environment to demonstrate scalability to more complex vehicle system models to be exercised during a Phase II development effort.